The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) announced Tuesday that it will focus on five high-impact research areas and establish two new institutes in the coming 15 years.

Among the key proposals of the "Building on Excellence 2005-2020 Strategic Plan", the university will focus on a range of carefully selected high-impact research areas, establish the Hong Kong Institute for Advanced Study, and open a School of Innovation and Technology Management.

According to the university's president Professor Paul Chu, five high-impact research disciplines are detailed in the plan, specifically chosen for their scientific importance and value to social and economic development.

The chosen disciplines include nano-science and nano-technology; biosciences and biotechnology; electronics, wireless and information technology; sustainable development and; management education and research. To meet the needs of its public and private sector partners, the university is establishing the Hong Kong Institute for Advanced Study, which will drive major interdisciplinary advances.

For the School of Innovation and Technology Management, it will help train the next generation of technologists and entrepreneurs.

With a novel curriculum, including an undergraduate degree in innovation and technology management and cutting-edge postgraduate research opportunities, the school will develop skilled graduates for careers across business, engineering and technology-related fields, said Professor Chu.

In addition, the university will work to extend its impact on higher education in the mainland. An independent graduate school and a research and development facility will be established in southern part of the mainland. These will both contribute further to social and economic development, nationally and regionally.

(Xinhua News Agency June 8, 2005)